se7en

Se7en was definitely a different “buddy cop” film than some other the other films that we have previously watched, such as Lethal Weapon and Beverly Hills Cop. Whereas as these two films seemed to place more focus on the bonding between the cops while working a case, this movie seemed to be overtaken by the actual case itself and the relationship between the two cops, in my opinion, seemed to take a less important role. It was noticeable in the movie, but I think the grotesque nature of the crimes distracted from Detectives Summerset and Mills. But similar to Lethal Weapon, there was a tension in the beginning between the two detectives. According to King, he claims that the “hero” of the movies are usually the white cop. In this movie, though, I think a more positive light is on Summerset. King also claims that they tend to be “hard-bitten, alienated, and pissed off at just about everybody” while the other officer is more supportive and comforting, following the rules and laws. But the roles seemed to be switched – Summerset is very calm and collected, thinking decisions through and following the rules, whereas Mills is very loud, outspoken, constantly cursing and always seems frustrated. Although Mills is the one with the family life while Summerset is alone. Throughout the movie, they have differing opinions about the serial killer. At the bar, Mills claims, “I don’t agree with you. I can’t.” But later on when they finally are working real hard together and are close to capturing the killer, Summerset says, “For the first time ever, you and I are in total agreement.” This is also one of the films that King points out where there really is no happy ending for both cops. In Se7en, Mills finds out his wife has been killed by the serial killer they captured and ends up shooting the killer in anger, fulfilling the Wrath sin. And for Summerset, I think there really is no happy ending for him, even though he is retiring.